Preamble
The Diploma in Child Care and Protection is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values required to safeguard, nurture, and promote the holistic development of children. The programme responds to the growing demand for competent child care professionals who can effectively address the diverse needs of children in families, schools, communities, health institutions, and child protection organizations.
The programme integrates theory with practical experience, enabling students to understand child development, children’s rights, child protection systems, counselling, family support services, and community-based interventions. Graduates will be prepared to work ethically and professionally in accordance with national legislation and international conventions on child welfare and protection.
Aims
The Diploma in Child Care and Protection aims to:
- Equip students with knowledge of child growth, development, care, and protection.
- Develop professionals who can promote the safety, welfare, and well-being of children.
- Produce graduates capable of identifying and responding to child protection concerns.
- Enhance students’ practical skills in supporting vulnerable children and families.
- Promote ethical, inclusive, and child-centred professional practice.
- Foster collaboration with communities, government departments, and non-governmental organizations in protecting children’s rights.
Objectives
Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates should be able to:
- Explain the stages of child growth and development.
- Apply principles of child protection and safeguarding.
- Identify signs of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence against children.
- Implement appropriate intervention and referral procedures.
- Promote children’s rights in line with national laws and international conventions.
- Provide basic counseling and psychosocial support to children and families.
- Plan and implement child-centred programmes and activities.
- Work effectively with multidisciplinary teams in child welfare settings.
- Conduct basic assessments and maintain professional records and reports.
- Demonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and effective communication skills.
Admissions Entry Requirements
Five (5) Ordinary Level passes including English Language.
A pass in Biology, Integrated Science, Family and Religious Studies, or any relevant subject is an added advantage.
Mature Entry applicants with relevant work experience in child care, education, social work, or community development may be considered according to institutional policy.
Duration of the Programme
Normal Duration:18 months (3 Semesters)
Career Opportunities
Graduates may work as:
- Child Care Officer
- Child Protection Officer
- Child Development Practitioner
- Children’s Home Caregiver
- Community Child Protection Worker
- Family Support Worker
- Early Childhood Care Practitioner
- Child Welfare Assistant
- NGO Child Protection Officer
- School Welfare Officer
- Youth Development Officer
- Social Services Assistant
- Community Development Officer
- Child Advocacy Officer
- Programme Assistant in child-focused organizations
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